The Japanese national team will begin preparations for their 2010 World Cup with a friendly against Venezuela on February 2.

Venezuela haven’t qualified for the Cup, but Japan manager Takeshi Okada feels it would be a good test as “teams from South America always approach matches wanting to win”. and also added that the game “will help toughen Japan up”.

Japanese players celebrate their goal

Right now Japan have no more friendlies in store, however, they will face China, Hong Kong and South Korea at the East Asian Championships in February.

Japan’s Asian counterparts- South Korea have left an option open to include veteran striker Ahn Jung-Hwan in next year’s World Cup.

Coach Huh has also stated that another veteran from the 2002 World Cup, Lee Chun-Soo may also get a chance. Huh said:

“Ahn Jung-Hwan and Lee Chun-Soo will not be ignore. They have much experience between them. The players are special assets to Korean football. They’re players who can adjust and do their share of work even if they are called upon later. They are still on the reserve list.”

Ahn, is famous for scoring a golden goal against Italy at the 2002 World Cup. Lee, also a key part of that South Korean team, currently plays his club football at Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia.